The Archbishop of Canterbury will join a procession of thousands on the streets of St Albans for the annual Alban Pilgrimage - a unique event which retells the remarkable story of Britain's first saint, Alban.

Attracting visitors, pilgrims and preachers from around the UK and abroad, the Alban Pilgrimage provides a vibrant spectacle as stunning 12-ft tall carnival puppets dramatize St Alban's story.

The procession travels through the streets of St Albans to St Albans Cathedral, the oldest site of continuous Christian worship in Britain, and is accompanied by hundreds of local children and adults dressed as angels, centurions, lions, roman soldiers and roses.

Alban died on June 22 over 1700 years ago, and on the nearest Saturday to his death, a national pilgrimage is held in his honour. 

He was executed for giving shelter to a Christian priest later named Amphibalus who was fleeing persecution by the Romans. 

Commenting on the Alban Pilgrimage, the Archbishop of Canterbury said: "As the earliest truth-teller for whom it cost his life, Alban is one of Britain’s greatest witnesses to Jesus.

"I am honoured to join the pilgrimage in the city that bears his name, and to join in prayer for the witness of Christians faced with persecution today."

Canon Kevin Walton of St Albans Cathedral said, "The story of St Alban not only belongs to the whole of our community, he is also Britain's first saint. We hope to welcome thousands for this great celebration and spectacle."

The Alban Pilgrimage is also attended by the Archbishop of Rouen, Mgr Jean-Charles Descubes. His presence acknowledges the 900th anniversary of the current building which was completed and dedicated back in 1115.

The Alban Pilgrimage starts at 11am at St Peter's Church on Saturday.

The Pilgrimage is a part of the Alban Weekend 2015 - a special weekend for the city showcasing over 2,000 years of history and remarkable heritage.